Governor of the State of Louisiana Kathleen Babineaux Blanco Photo courtesy of The State of Louisiana

Dear Friends,

On behalf of all Louisianians, it is my pleasure to welcome you to the Cane River National Heritage Area of Natchitoches, Louisiana. Through this virtual tour of historic properties, national historic landmarks and the Cane River Creole National Historical Park, you will gain a wealth of knowledge about Louisiana's heritage and develop an appreciation for one of Louisiana's most treasured sites.

Our state is made up of so many unique landmarks that highlight Louisiana's cultural heritage, and this one is certainly no exception. The Cane River National Heritage Area features 116,000 acres of land in Central Louisiana. The lands are rich with historic plantations, distinctive Creole architecture and a multi-cultural legacy. From the Los Adaes Spanish Fort, that once served as the capitol of Texas, to the National Historic Landmark District of Natchitoches, which is older than the city of New Orleans, the Cane River National Heritage Area is truly a special place.

As you continue your journey through the virtual tour, I also commend you in your quest for knowledge. Learning about our heritage helps us foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of our cultural and natural heritage. Through educational programs like these, we can continue learning from our past and preparing for the future.

Welcome again, best wishes for a successful tour!